Intercessory Prayer

by Macy Johnson

“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”

(2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV)

A godly couple in my church sensed the nudge of the Holy Spirit to start an Intercessory Prayer Ministry. The number of participants grew exponentially in a few short years.

Prayer warriors commit to pray one hour every week in designated church classrooms. They read the Bible, pray, and write notes of encouragement to those on the provided list.

As part of the prayer team, I receive the greater blessing and step into a bigger picture. The members find joy in reaching beyond themselves, beyond their church community.

“Like a bad tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the unfaithful in times of trouble. Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.”

(Proverbs 25:19-20 NIV)

One morning this verse jumped out of the Bible’s page. (My sister revealed she had a torn Achilles tendon the same day I was told I needed a root canal!) It reminded me of the Intercessory Prayer Ministry’s challenge to be faithful, to lift those with heavy hearts with compassion and true concern.

To pray for others and point those in pain to our Heavenly Father is a serious privilege, not to be taken lightly. God calls us to be faithful and stand in the gap between them and Christ.

My hope is that every congregation have a thriving Intercessory Prayer Ministry. It is a powerful way for individual members of the body of Christ to stay connected to their Lord and be a channel of His healing presence and power.

I will lift others up in prayer today, as Christ’s intervening ambassador. I hope you will, too!